The Fireball Gazette

Arriving in Goldenbank, the crew chose a rather discreet harbor on the outskirts, as one shouldn't like to attract unnecessary attention to an Allison & Son's vessel. They hired a few local handymen to repair the ship and remove its somewhat conspicuous figurehead. However, they were quite taken aback to find that Wilma and Cecilie had quite rudely left the ship, leaving behind only a few coins, the Liquid Flux, and the magic ruby - a rather poor way to say goodbye, if you ask me.

Near the harbor, the crew bumped into Cordelia "The Lioness," a pirate with a bit of history with Mad Matt. Cordelia offered a polite warning regarding Mad Matt's rather perilous past but harboured no ill will. She directed them toward the university, sharing tales of Devil Whales and Tritons that had claimed many of Mad Matt's former crewmates - all quite dreadful, really. On their way to the university, Tiyana visited a blacksmith who fused the magic ruby with a shortsword, creating a rather fiery blade.

The University Visit
At the university, the crew met Lady Levine. Somewhat disappointed that they hadn't caused much of a stir during the Port Elgin attack, she shared details about the increasing presence of Flux on Kenver's shores, often accompanied by zombified Husks - which is all quite bothersome. Tasked with researching the potential of the liquid, Lady Levine pressed the crew into joining the university as lecturers to facilitate easier information exchange. Despite Mad Matt's polite objections, Tiyana saw the opportunity to improve her social standing and agreed.

Mad Matt then sought out Professor Kafhiri for help translating the book he found back at the shipwreck. After initially mistaking him for a student due to his rather small stature, Kafhiri quickly forgot this slight against his people and was thrilled to assist. Using a dictionary provided by Professor Hisashi of Yufune, Matt could understand some of the Ancient Deep Speech it was written in. It seems to detail the physiology and society of the Marid, a species of rather dangerous deep-sea creatures that live between Kenver and Midai.

Becoming Lecturers
With Lady Levine's recommendation, the crew registered as lecturers for the adventuring course. However, to access the University Communication Network, they have to complete one adventure with a student - and do try to keep things orderly. They were assigned Ava, a young half-elf eager for adventure but struggling slightly with basic magic.

Given the choice between a seven-day trek to Kestle Mill or exploring crab-infested caves on the beach - and considering the weather was looking rather miserable for a trek - the crew opted for the latter. Promising to teach Ava the basics of real-world combat and keep her safe, they prepared for their next adventure in the caves near Goldenbank.

Classroom Confidential: Goldenbank Students’ Anonymous Opinions on their Professors

Collected by the Fireball Gazette Investigative Gossip Department

“I had Lady Levine for two semesters, and while her classes were quite a struggle, they were also the most rewarding. She has an incredible understanding of monsters and their interactions with elemental properties. Her strictness pushed me to my limits, but I came out with a deep appreciation for the subject and a solid foundation for my future studies.”

“Taking a class with Professor Kafhiri is like being on a rollercoaster - or perhaps a very bumpy carriage ride. You never know what tangent he’ll go off on next! One minute we're discussing Elvish poetry, and the next, he's explaining Dwarvish mining chants. His lectures are quite unpredictable, but it also means he’s incredibly passionate about his subjects. If you can keep up with him, you’ll learn more than you ever imagined about linguistics. Plus, his enthusiasm is quite infectious!“

"Lady Levine's classes are notorious for their difficulty, but the knowledge gained is unparalleled. Her expertise in the elemental properties of monsters is fascinating. She's tough, no doubt, and her somewhat sadistic streak can be daunting, but I respect her immensely. Her passion for the subject is enchanting and has inspired me to delve deeper into my studies."

"I never thought I’d have a crush on a professor, but Lady Levine changed that. Her intelligence and beauty are a powerful combination. Her lectures on the elemental properties of monsters are fascinating, but it's her striking beauty and commanding presence that captivate me. Do you think she’d step on me if I asked her? (How terribly improper of me to ask!)"

"I’m really struggling in Professor Kafhiri's class. His energy is amazing, but his fast-paced lectures leave me scrambling to keep up - it's all a bit much, really. He moves from one topic to another so quickly that I often miss key points. I need more time to process the information, but he’s already onto the quite next language nuance. It’s rather frustrating because I want to learn, but his style is a bit breathless."

"Classes in the adventuring course have been great, but I’m so ready for the practical seminars!!! We’ve learned a ton about strategy, weaponry, and wilderness survival, but it’s all theory right now. I’m really looking forward to working with real adventurers and seeing how everything plays out in real situations. The thought of applying what we’ve learned in a hands-on environment is thrilling. I know it’s going to be tough, but I’m eager to face those challenges and gain some real-world experience!!!"

"I’ve always been focused on my studies, but Lady Levine has me questioning everything. Her intelligence and beauty are undeniable, and I can't help but feel drawn to her in a way I’ve never experienced before. It's confusing but also quite exhilarating. Every lecture leaves me with more questions about myself..."

"Lady Levine is such an enigma. She's brilliant, gorgeous, and somewhat intimidating, but no one seems to even know her first name. It’s strange, really. You’d think someone as renowned as her would have that detail floating around - it's quite a bother when you're trying to be formal. I’ve asked a few classmates, but no one has a clue. It’s like she’s this mysterious figure with a shroud of secrets. I’m beginning to wonder if it’s intentional, adding to her mystique and the aura of authority she carries."